Rights groups condemned the move. Amnesty International said it underscored government willingness to suppress freedom of expression and raised serious concerns “about how China is using its influence over Thai authorities”.

Thai criticism

In recent years, Thailand has faced criticism for its co-operation with Beijing.

Last year, Hong Kong publisher Gui Minhai disappeared while on holiday in Thailand.

He later appeared on Chinese state TV, saying he had voluntarily handed himself over to the authorities over a drink-driving fatality years ago.

There was widespread speculation that he had been deported to China at Beijing’s request because of his involvement with a publishing house which published material critical of China’s leaders.

The UN condemned Thailand last year for deporting two Chinese dissidents it had given refugee status. The men had been in detention for illegal entry and rights group believe they were returned to China.